NOW IS THE TIME TO PAY ATTENTION TO BLOOMING ROSES ON YOUR PATCH

JUNE is peak flowering season for roses.

- DIARMUID GAVIN

Whether scrambling up walls and trellises or growing in borders or pots, they are the essence of an English country garden, and remain a firm favourite with gardeners.

Their beauty and scent is unrivalled but they can be susceptible to pests and diseases. So what's the best way to look after your roses over the summer months?

The most likely problem will be greenfly or aphids and you will easily spot these covering new leaves and rosebuds. They are a natural part of a garden's biodiversity and a staple diet for ladybirds. They feed on sap and their excretion is known as honeydew. This can form a black mould and look unsightly.